Fun run organisers hope to raise £75,000

Apr 29 2008 By Alison Dayani

ORGANISERS of the Birmingham Mail Fun Run today revealed how they are hoping more than £75,000 will be raised from the fun-packed event.

About 1,800 people pounded the streets and fields between Aston Villa FC and Alexander Stadium, in Perry Barr, on Sunday to raise much-needed cash for Macmillan Cancer Support and the Birmingham Mail Charity Trust.

Organisers today said that they were expecting an average of £50 sponsorship money to come rolling in from most runners, which would make a dramatic difference to cancer victims and disadvantaged families across the region.

Steve Dourass, of Macmillan Cancer Support, said: "It was staggering to see so many people taking part in the run and now we have to start counting up how much has been raised. Sponsorship money needs to be with the Macmillan team by the end of May and we are now thinking that as much as £75,000 or more could be raised.

"Every penny of that will be out to good use.

"We want to say a big 'thank you' to everyone who took part. It means a lot to charities and the people they help."

Most of the money will support the cancer charity's projects with 15 per cent also going towards the Birmingham Mail Charity Trust, which hands out grants to disadvantaged groups.

The runner who individually raises the most money will be able to enjoy a weekend break in Dublin, Ireland, with Jurys Inn and Ryanair, who donated the prizes.